UAE is modern, clean, and very safe. This page gives you practical guidance—hydration in desert heat, eating safely, medical access, city navigation, and data/money protection.
UAE has modern healthcare, but preparation matters. Carry regular medications in original packaging with prescriptions. A small travel kit with pain relief, sunscreen, lip balm, and rehydration salts is useful.
Food is generally safe; street foods are well-regulated. Start with cooked meals and bottled water. If you have dietary restrictions, carry a card explaining allergies—restaurants in Dubai or Abu Dhabi are usually helpful.
Private clinics and hospitals in UAE cities are modern with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are widespread. For urgent care, use emergency numbers (999) or hotel assistance.
UAE cities are safe, clean, and well-signposted. Crowds are friendly. Use official taxis, Uber/Careem, or metro. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas.
UAE food hygiene is strict. Choose restaurants with visible cleanliness. Bottled or filtered water is standard. Hot drinks like tea/coffee are safe.
Dress modestly: cover shoulders/knees in public and religious areas. Women-only areas are available in metro and beaches. Always use reputable taxis or ride apps and trust your instincts.
Desert heat requires hydration, sunblock, and protective clothing. Only visit marked tourist areas. Follow guides when dune-bashing or desert camping.
UAE is low-risk for petty crime. Common scams involve unofficial tour operators or street vendors. Always pay official prices and check invoices.
UAE internet is fast but certain apps may be restricted. VPNs are widely used for work or banking. Always use secure Wi-Fi and avoid public hotspots for financial transactions.
While UAE does not require mandatory vaccines for most visitors, routine immunizations like tetanus, hepatitis A, and influenza are advisable for frequent travelers. Comprehensive travel insurance that includes hospital admission, prescription coverage, and air evacuation is highly recommended, especially if you plan outdoor desert or water activities.
Long flights, jet lag, and cultural changes can impact mental health. UAE cities are supportive with multilingual counseling services and meditation centers. Many hotels also provide wellness rooms and yoga spaces.
UAE is family-friendly with clean facilities, stroller access, and children’s menus in restaurants. Pharmacies stock pediatric medicines, but bring your child’s preferred brand if possible.
UAE infrastructure is designed with accessibility in mind. Wheelchair ramps, elevators, and priority queues are common in airports, malls, and metros. Taxis and ride-hailing apps can request wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
| Coverage | Basic Policy | Comprehensive Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Up to $10,000 | Up to $250,000 |
| Emergency Evacuation | Not included | Included |
| Trip Cancellation | Partial | Full |
| COVID-19 Coverage | No | Yes |
Drink 2–3 liters daily; carry electrolyte sachets for desert tours.
Enable two-factor authentication for banking and ride apps.
Seatbelts are compulsory; speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras.
Always keep your embassy’s contact details saved. Many embassies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai provide 24/7 assistance for lost passports, emergencies, or legal aid. Check your home country’s official website for exact numbers before departure.
Bottled or filtered water is safest. Tap water in hotels is usually treated but taste may vary.
No mandatory vaccinations for most travelers; routine vaccines recommended. Check travel advisory based on your health.
Yes, especially in major cities. Stick to main roads, hotels, and well-lit areas. Avoid walking alone in isolated streets.
UAE has modern hospitals and clinics. Ask your hotel for directions or call emergency services (Ambulance: 998).
Street food is generally safe if you choose busy, clean vendors. Hotel and restaurant food is hygienic.
Prefer mobile data for banking or sensitive tasks. If using public Wi-Fi, use a VPN and avoid sharing passwords.